Four years ago, PGA of America Associate Dan Trebendis made a major career move with no regrets.
For approximately 20 years, Trebendis worked as the corporate compliance officer for mental health and family services providers. But Trebendis chose to leave his corporate position and pursue his passion for golf.
His career-changing decision led him to joining the staff at Green Lakes State Park Golf Course where he is making up for lost time and working toward his PGA Class A Membership.
“Even though I played golf at LeMoyne College and had some great rounds in my life, I never thought I was a good enough player to pursue this career,” Trebendis said. “I lost many years, convinced I did not have the skills to be a PGA Member. I wish I had those years back.”
The 44-year-old Trebendis, who resides in Chittenango with his family, is an integral part of the Green Lakes staff. Among his duties: train and support the part time and seasonal staff, inventory management and presentation of the pro shop, golf lessons, assist and support Head Professional Jeff Carson, PGA.
Trebendis’ hard work and service to his facility led Trebendis to be named the 2025 Central New York PGA Assistant/Associate of the Year. Here’s what Trebendis had to say about golf and his career.
What it meant to win the Assistant/Associate Award last year:
To receive that kind of support from your peers is an incredible honor. Even just being nominated was very uplifting. Nobody knows the business better than your peers, so to receive recognition from those individuals just reminds me that I am on the right path.
What’s left for him to earn PGA Class A Membership:
I have completed the portfolio work for Level 2, and in November I will be going to PGA Headquarters in Frisco to complete the Level 2 seminar. At that point, I will be admitted to Level 3. I am on pace to earn my Class A membership by the end of 2027.
His advice for someone hoping to become a PGA of America Member:
It is important to understand exactly what is required for each PGM assignment. When the season gets busy and stressful, it is easy to miss something you need (such as a random photo or inventory report). But if you plan ahead and are well prepared, you will complete each requirement without having to repeat your work.
Best part of his job:
The team I work with at Green Lakes. They are an amazing group of people, that manage an extremely high workload with professionalism and grace. Our Class A professional, Jeff Carson, is supportive and patient, and has created a great culture.
What he’s looking forward this golf season:
Getting back into the tournament season and playing some golf with friends and colleagues of the section. There are some great host courses and fun events this year.